Just One Step Memorial Walk

Lace up for a truly meaningful experience at the Just One Step Memorial Walk, set to take place on September 13, 2026, in Wayland, MI. This poignant 1-mile walk is more than just a stroll; it's a powerful statement of remembrance and hope, dedicated to those lost too soon and a beacon for suicide prevention and mental health awareness. As a new, yet integral, part of the beloved Wayland Hot Air Balloonfest, your participation directly contributes to supporting community members navigating loss or seeking essential care. The registration fee even grants you entry to the wider Balloonfest, offering a vibrant atmosphere of family-friendly activities, including a carnival, car show, live music, and the breathtaking spectacle of hot air balloons soaring above and glowing at night.

The course itself offers a gentle, accessible path as participants embark on a silent walk around Calkins Field, the heart of the Balloonfest activities. While exact elevation details are minimal for this short distance, the "around the field" route promises a non-technical and accommodating experience for all walkers. This event was founded by Nissa Smith in memory of her mother, and through her nonprofit, 4 One 2 Cares, it aims to foster a supportive community and remind everyone that it's okay not to be okay. On typical race day conditions in mid-September, Wayland, MI, often sees comfortable highs around 76F and lows around 55F, with a low 14% chance of precipitation, providing pleasant walking weather.

The Just One Step Memorial Walk provides a unique opportunity to join a compassionate community, share in a collective act of remembrance, and contribute to a vital cause. It’s an inspiring event designed to uplift spirits and spread hope, combining the solemnity of a memorial with the joyful backdrop of the Wayland Hot Air Balloonfest.